Fort Worth Shoplifting Lawyer
If you have been accused of stealing items from a store or business, you should immediately enlist the help of a skilled defense attorney. The consequences for shoplifting could include fines, possible jail time, and a criminal conviction on your record.
Our Fort Worth shoplifting lawyers have extensive experience handling shoplifting cases and maximizing your chances of a positive outcome. From pretrial negotiations to your day in court, our team of attorneys is skilled in all aspects of criminal defense. We will be with you every step of the way and will fight to keep your record clean.
What are the Potential Shoplifting Consequences?
Shoplifting is a type of theft and is defined as the unlawful taking of another’s property under Texas Penal Code Section 31.01. Shoplifting typically occurs in a retail store where the property is taken to deprive the store of its belongings.
Shoplifting can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. This is often determined by the value of the property taken, for example:
- Class C misdemeanor – If the property stolen is worth $100 or less, the penalty is a maximum fine of $500.
- Class B misdemeanor – If the property is worth less than $100 but the perpetrator has a prior theft conviction, or if the property is valued between $100 and $750, the penalty is a maximum fine of $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Class A misdemeanor – If the property is valued between $750 and $2,500, the penalty is a maximum fine of $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail.
- State jail felony – If the property is valued between $2,500 and $30,000, or if the property stolen is a firearm, the penalty is a maximum fine of $10,000 and between 180 days to two years in jail.
- Third-degree felony – If the property is valued between $30,000 and $150,000, the penalty is a maximum fine of $10,000 and two to ten years in jail.
- Second-degree felony – If the property is valued between $150,000 and $300,000, the penalty is a maximum fine of $10,000 and two to 20 years in jail.
- First-degree felony – If the property is valued above $300,000, the penalty is a maximum fine of $10,000 and five to 99 years in jail.
| Property Value | Classification | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| $100 or less | Class C misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $500 |
| Less than $100 (with prior theft conviction) | Class B misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail |
| $100 to $750 | Class B misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail |
| $750 to $2,500 | Class A misdemeanor | Maximum fine of $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail |
| $2,500 to $30,000 (or a firearm) | State jail felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 and 180 days to two years in jail |
| $30,000 to $150,000 | Third-degree felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 and two to ten years in jail |
| $150,000 to $300,000 | Second-degree felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 and two to 20 years in jail |
| Above $300,000 | First-degree felony | Maximum fine of $10,000 and five to 99 years in jail |
As you can see, the punishments for shoplifting vary and can be confusing. Don’t try to navigate the justice system alone. Put your case in the hands of a seasoned and skilled defense attorney who will guide you through this difficult time.
What are the Defenses Against Shoplifting Charges?
There are various defenses that can negate or lessen the repercussions of a shoplifting accusation. Accidentally leaving a store with an item, for example, is a defendable action. Likewise, abandoning an item before you pass the point of sale can also be challenged.
Depending on the facts of your case, you may consider a plea. An aggressive defense may result in a reduced sentence and can keep a conviction off of your record. Our priorities are to avoid jail time, avoid a conviction, and set you up for record to be cleared in the future.
It is essential to discuss all of your options with an experienced attorney. Our shoplifting lawyers in Fort Worth can review your case and advise you on the best way to proceed. We can help.
Contact a Fort Worth Shoplifting Lawyer Immediately
Contact one of our Fort Worth shoplifting lawyers today to give yourself the best chance of avoiding serious consequences for a theft charge. We have experience you can count on. Our team will negotiate on your behalf or fight for you at trial. Call now to schedule your free consultation.
